ASSAf joins global coalition of academies of medicine

The Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) has joined leading national academies of medicine and medical divisions of academies of sciences worldwide in launching the Global Coalition of Academies of Medicine on Climate and Health (the Coalition).

This landmark collaboration aims to strengthen the scientific foundation for responses to climate-related health risks. It supports the Belém Health Action Plan (BHAP) – Brazil’s framework for integrating health across climate adaptation and mitigation, unveiled at COP30.

The Coalition brings together academies from across continents to provide independent, evidence-based guidance, foster knowledge exchange, and catalyse action at the intersection of climate and health. Through this collaboration, members will work collectively to help governments, health systems, and communities implement practical, equitable, and science-informed solutions.

Representing South Africa, ASSAf will contribute its expertise in climate science, health research, and policy translation to ensure African perspectives and priorities are reflected in global efforts. The Academy has long championed science-based responses to environmental and public health challenges through initiatives such as the Science20 (S20) engagement group of the G20 and the InterAcademy Partnership (IAP) network.

“Climate change is the defining health challenge of our time,” said Professor Himla Soodyall, Executive Officer of ASSAf. By joining this Global Coalition, ASSAf reaffirms its commitment to ensuring that African science informs global climate–health policy. Our goal is to strengthen resilience, equity, and health systems in ways that protect both people and the planet.”